Tis’ the Season, for Fall Prevention Week! Falls threaten a senior’s safety and independence and a majority of them happen in your own home. Don’t worry! With these helpful tips and suggestions, you’ll be sitting next to a fire with your grandchildren instead of them sitting next to you in a hospital bed recovering from a fall that could have been prevented.
The NCOA states that these tips will help decrease your risk for falls:
- Talking to your doctor about physical therapy to address any balance or weakness concerns and to see if an assistive device is right for you
- Making sure your medications are taken regularly
- Fixing simple hazards such as rugs, clutter, poorly lit areas (such as bathrooms)
- Getting your vision checked regularly
- Using a walker or cane
Fall prevention is a team effort! Having a fear of falling can be scary but you don’t have to go through it alone! Telling your primary care provider and your family members or spouse can allow them to help make sure you have all the means necessary to move about independently in your home, such as installing grab bars in the shower or walk-in bathtub and getting you properly fitted for an assistive device.
One in every four adults fall every year in the U.S., so tell your loved ones about your concerns so they can help support you in making sure you live as long and independently as you can!
References:
Debunking the Myths of Older Adult Falls. The National Council on Aging. (n.d.). Retrieved September 19, 2022, from https://ncoa.org/article/debunking-the-myths-of-older-adult-falls
Get the Facts on Falls Prevention. The National Council on Aging. (n.d.). Retrieved September 19, 2022, from https://ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-falls-prevention
